This Ciao Bella fits as expected compared to my other 30DDs, with the exception that the band runs a little more snug. In practice, I don't notice much difference between this band and other bands. Unlike the Fairy Tale colorway I picked up around the same time, this one fits me as expected with no obvious fit problems. However, right now I am between 30DD and 30DDD, and I would say that 30DDD is more of a correct technical fit for my larger side while 30DD fits my smaller side.

Magenta Purple colorway

Updated on Mar 14, 2020 Flag this

This particular bra, unlike my other 30DD Ciao Bellas, is most obviously too small on my body although there isn't much of a difference in measurements. I believe the shape of the cups is more closed off than the others I own, as I get a pretty distorted breast shape in this bra with the fullest portion of the cup sitting too low, the top digging in to my tall roots, and major spillage. Although so far my Ciao Bellas have fit quite consistently with the only exception being varying degrees of seam visibility dependent on sewing, this one actually fits differently from the rest. A good example of how cup shape affects fit even if measurements don't show obvious deviation.

Fairy Tale colorway

This bra is not owned any more

Updated on Mar 14, 2020 Flag this

I've now worn the Ciao Bella all winter as my "sweater bra," and have enjoyed this style thoroughly. Since it comes in so many lovely colors and the price is affordable, I've picked up another one, and am excited to add more to my collection!

I've been wearing this size when I measure 28DD/30D and now at 28E/30DD, and I'm pleased that the bra still fits me despite an increase in cup size. The band seems pretty solid and hasn't stretched out due to wear, and I've found it to be TTS though not all B. Tempt'd bras are TTS in the band. I originally had ... concerns about the straps since they are only partially adjustable and I have them shortened all the way, but so far they haven't been a problem either. The twinned satin portion of the strap is very rigid and has no stretch, so overall the straps have not stretched out at all. Shortening the straps is a fairly simple procedure, but this really should be designed with more flexibility in the adjustable length.

The only flaws I see in this bra are due to the materials. As noted in my previous version of this review, the lace can snag rather easily. Because the style is a lace overlay over foam cups and the foam cups have a center seam, it doesn't give a totally smooth look under clothing. This is why I am only wearing it under thicker items like sweaters and do not wear it under lightweight tees. There has also been a lot of inconsistencies in sewing and some bras give an odd or pointy lumpy appearance due to the sewing. I'd recommend ordering from a source that accepts returns so you can try multiples and not get stuck with a badly sewn bra.

Overall, a great bra that suits me and is comfortable and easy to wear. It worked for me at my smaller size with more of a FOB/shallow shape, and it works for me now with a fuller, more rounded shape. The top of the bra is open enough not to cut into my roots but doesn't cause any gapping. The underwires for me are comfortable and never dig into my bony ribs, which is a problem I have often when it comes to properly fitting bands. So glad I finally gave this bra a try, and glad that I tried multiple sizes (30D and 30DD) in order to get the right fit!
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316 more words

Surf the Web colorway

Updated on Jan 31, 2020 Flag this

I've now worn the Ciao Bella all winter as my "sweater bra," and have enjoyed this style thoroughly. Since it comes in so many lovely colors and the price is affordable, I've picked up another one, and am excited to add more to my collection!

I've been wearing this size when I measure 28DD/30D and now at 28E/30DD, and I'm pleased that the bra still fits me despite an increase in cup size. The band seems pretty solid and hasn't stretched out due to wear, and I've found it to be TTS though not all B. Tempt'd bras are TTS in the band. I originally had ... concerns about the straps since they are only partially adjustable and I have them shortened all the way, but so far they haven't been a problem either. The twinned satin portion of the strap is very rigid and has no stretch, so overall the straps have not stretched out at all. Shortening the straps is a fairly simple procedure, but this really should be designed with more flexibility in the adjustable length.

The only flaws I see in this bra are due to the materials. As noted in my previous version of this review, the lace can snag rather easily. Because the style is a lace overlay over foam cups and the foam cups have a center seam, it doesn't give a totally smooth look under clothing. This is why I am only wearing it under thicker items like sweaters and do not wear it under lightweight tees. There has also been a lot of inconsistencies in sewing and some bras give an odd or pointy lumpy appearance due to the sewing. I'd recommend ordering from a source that accepts returns so you can try multiples and not get stuck with a badly sewn bra.

Overall, a great bra that suits me and is comfortable and easy to wear. It worked for me at my smaller size with more of a FOB/shallow shape, and it works for me now with a fuller, more rounded shape. The top of the bra is open enough not to cut into my roots but doesn't cause any gapping. The underwires for me are comfortable and never dig into my bony ribs, which is a problem I have often when it comes to properly fitting bands. So glad I finally gave this bra a try, and glad that I tried multiple sizes (30D and 30DD) in order to get the right fit!
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316 more words

Pastel Lilac Lurex colorway

Updated on Jan 31, 2020 Flag this

I've now worn the Ciao Bella all winter as my "sweater bra," and have enjoyed this style thoroughly. Since it comes in so many lovely colors and the price is affordable, I've picked up another one, and am excited to add more to my collection!

I've been wearing this size when I measure 28DD/30D and now at 28E/30DD, and I'm pleased that the bra still fits me despite an increase in cup size. The band seems pretty solid and hasn't stretched out due to wear, and I've found it to be TTS though not all B. Tempt'd bras are TTS in the band. I originally had ... concerns about the straps since they are only partially adjustable and I have them shortened all the way, but so far they haven't been a problem either. The twinned satin portion of the strap is very rigid and has no stretch, so overall the straps have not stretched out at all. Shortening the straps is a fairly simple procedure, but this really should be designed with more flexibility in the adjustable length.

The only flaws I see in this bra are due to the materials. As noted in my previous version of this review, the lace can snag rather easily. Because the style is a lace overlay over foam cups and the foam cups have a center seam, it doesn't give a totally smooth look under clothing. This is why I am only wearing it under thicker items like sweaters and do not wear it under lightweight tees. There has also been a lot of inconsistencies in sewing and some bras give an odd or pointy lumpy appearance due to the sewing. I'd recommend ordering from a source that accepts returns so you can try multiples and not get stuck with a badly sewn bra.

Overall, a great bra that suits me and is comfortable and easy to wear. It worked for me at my smaller size with more of a FOB/shallow shape, and it works for me now with a fuller, more rounded shape. The top of the bra is open enough not to cut into my roots but doesn't cause any gapping. The underwires for me are comfortable and never dig into my bony ribs, which is a problem I have often when it comes to properly fitting bands. So glad I finally gave this bra a try, and glad that I tried multiple sizes (30D and 30DD) in order to get the right fit!
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316 more words

Flint Stone Lurex colorway

Updated on Jan 31, 2020 Flag this

I've now worn the Ciao Bella all winter as my "sweater bra," and have enjoyed this style thoroughly. Since it comes in so many lovely colors and the price is affordable, I've picked up another one, and am excited to add more to my collection!

I've been wearing this size when I measure 28DD/30D and now at 28E/30DD, and I'm pleased that the bra still fits me despite an increase in cup size. The band seems pretty solid and hasn't stretched out due to wear, and I've found it to be TTS though not all B. Tempt'd bras are TTS in the band. I originally had ... concerns about the straps since they are only partially adjustable and I have them shortened all the way, but so far they haven't been a problem either. The twinned satin portion of the strap is very rigid and has no stretch, so overall the straps have not stretched out at all. Shortening the straps is a fairly simple procedure, but this really should be designed with more flexibility in the adjustable length.

The only flaws I see in this bra are due to the materials. As noted in my previous version of this review, the lace can snag rather easily. Because the style is a lace overlay over foam cups and the foam cups have a center seam, it doesn't give a totally smooth look under clothing. This is why I am only wearing it under thicker items like sweaters and do not wear it under lightweight tees. There has also been a lot of inconsistencies in sewing and some bras give an odd or pointy lumpy appearance due to the sewing. I'd recommend ordering from a source that accepts returns so you can try multiples and not get stuck with a badly sewn bra.

Overall, a great bra that suits me and is comfortable and easy to wear. It worked for me at my smaller size with more of a FOB/shallow shape, and it works for me now with a fuller, more rounded shape. The top of the bra is open enough not to cut into my roots but doesn't cause any gapping. The underwires for me are comfortable and never dig into my bony ribs, which is a problem I have often when it comes to properly fitting bands. So glad I finally gave this bra a try, and glad that I tried multiple sizes (30D and 30DD) in order to get the right fit!
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316 more words

Wild Aster colorway

Updated on Jan 31, 2020 Flag this

I've now worn the Ciao Bella all winter as my "sweater bra," and have enjoyed this style thoroughly. Since it comes in so many lovely colors and the price is affordable, I've picked up another one, and am excited to add more to my collection!

I've been wearing this size when I measure 28DD/30D and now at 28E/30DD, and I'm pleased that the bra still fits me despite an increase in cup size. The band seems pretty solid and hasn't stretched out due to wear, and I've found it to be TTS though not all B. Tempt'd bras are TTS in the band. I originally had ... concerns about the straps since they are only partially adjustable and I have them shortened all the way, but so far they haven't been a problem either. The twinned satin portion of the strap is very rigid and has no stretch, so overall the straps have not stretched out at all. Shortening the straps is a fairly simple procedure, but this really should be designed with more flexibility in the adjustable length.

The only flaws I see in this bra are due to the materials. As noted in my previous version of this review, the lace can snag rather easily. Because the style is a lace overlay over foam cups and the foam cups have a center seam, it doesn't give a totally smooth look under clothing. This is why I am only wearing it under thicker items like sweaters and do not wear it under lightweight tees. There has also been a lot of inconsistencies in sewing and some bras give an odd or pointy lumpy appearance due to the sewing. I'd recommend ordering from a source that accepts returns so you can try multiples and not get stuck with a badly sewn bra.

Overall, a great bra that suits me and is comfortable and easy to wear. It worked for me at my smaller size with more of a FOB/shallow shape, and it works for me now with a fuller, more rounded shape. The top of the bra is open enough not to cut into my roots but doesn't cause any gapping. The underwires for me are comfortable and never dig into my bony ribs, which is a problem I have often when it comes to properly fitting bands. So glad I finally gave this bra a try, and glad that I tried multiple sizes (30D and 30DD) in order to get the right fit!
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316 more words

Night colorway

Updated on Jan 31, 2020 Flag this

OK, take two for Ciao Bella! If you've seen my original review on the Ciao Bella, I tried my normal size of 30D and found that while it was a decent fit, the cups were just a little off. It seemed like there was a bit of a shape mismatch issue, but I remembered reading a couple of reviews mentioning that the 30D and 30DD fit quite differently, so I decided to give the 30DD a shot and pick up another color via Nordstrom Rack (as well as another 30D in the same color to compare!)

And . . . this one fits! Super odd, since ... I am normally a 30D in department store brands, yet not a single B.tempt'd 30D bras has fit me (I've tried 3 styles and 5 bras). The B.Sultry gapped badly in the cups in 30D and I wear a 30C in that style. The B.tempt'd online fit calculator also puts me at a 30C, though I can't imagine how they got this calculation because I measure somewhere between 28DD and 28E, or 30D and 30DD based on the standard bra cup sizing calculation method, with nearly 6" difference between band and full bust measurements. Yet in Ciao Bella, 30DD is my perfect fit. How is this possible to have two full cup size difference in the same line and in the same lined balconnette silhouette?

Anyway, the band here is thankfully still TTS, and it fits me exactly the same as the 30D. The band is made from micromesh-lined open mesh, with decently firm elastic that goes under the cradle, giving it a much more secure fit than I am used to from American department store brands. The unstretched band measures TTS for 30D (I don't really have a lot of 30DD bras to compare to), and while it isn't as snug as the UK 30D bras I am used to, feels secure yet comfortable.

Now, one major reason the styling of the bra never appealed to me is that I thought it was one piece molded foam, which I absolutely hate. Instead, it is constructed as a normal bra with cups made from a seamed flexible foam lining. The construction of the bra is the same as Cleo Mimi, but has a lace overlay over the entire front panel. Since it is really just a normal balconnette with a bandeau-like appearance, it ends up looking more like a normal balconnette on me.

I was originally worried that the cup seams would be really visible, since I hated the ones on Cleo Juna, and several users' fit photos showed a pointy seam, but these are actually quite subdued on me. This is thanks to the flexible foam cups, which really do mold nicely to your shape. As long as you are full enough to fill out the cups completely, the seams won't be visible. The lace texture is also pretty subtle under clothing, and is no more noticeable than my normal unlined lace bras (currently the Auden unlined lace balconnette).

The fit issues I had in the 30D are all gone with this size up, and I am happy to report that there's no gapping or empty space in the cups either. I think that after years of wearing 30C/32B molded cups, I had trained my eye to think bras that are too small look like the right proportion on my body, while bras that have larger cups still look a little alien. The 30DD is definitely wider and taller, but it's what I need to enclose all the tissue as my shape is so wide. It's really hard to find bras that really fit wide, shallow, FOB shapes, and I am happy that this one is it! Thus, Ciao Bellas in all the colors are coming very soon in the mail, especially as it is a ridiculously affordable bra even at full price ($38), but can regularly be snagged for under $20 in discontinued fashion colors.

However, there are two things I really don't love about the bra. First, the adjustable portion of the strap is very short (most of it is a decorative twinned strap), and I have the straps fully shortened. I am 5'1" with a normal torso proportion, and I don't think this would work for someone who actually has a shorter torso. However, I saw another user who is also 5'1" write that the straps were too short, so I wonder if the style has been updated, or if there are just some inconsistencies in strap length. The second is that the lace, while decently soft, snags easily. In handling the bra for this review, it snagged on my gold bracelet and on a rough patch of skin on my finger. Hopefully this doesn't become an issue with regular wear, as I am planning to add this bra into my everyday rotation for cooler weather.

One word of warning: the seamed foam cup construction with lace overlay seems to be a tricky one for the seamstresses to get even, and is not very forgiving as the seam can stick out. I've found some noticeable fit differences between left and right cups just based on cutting and sewing quality. Also, as the lace is an overlay, there can be puckering issues if the two layers are slightly different sizes or shapes, or if they are just tacked together at the wrong point. If you feel this bra fits you but one side seems to fit a little weirdly, I'd recommend ordering another bra and seeing which one fits better. My Vanilla Ice and Surf the Web colorways in 30D measure identically in the cups but fit totally differently--one has a nice smooth curve, while the other one is lumpy with a visible seam! I wouldn't buy this bra final sale unless you are super comfortable with the fit and know how much variation to expect between individual bras.

Still, compared to the 30D, I felt that 30DD has more consistency between fits than the 30D. I have tried this size in 4 individual bras and they all fit the same, the only issue is the seaming described above. I didn't have any problems with the overall cup shape between bras. However, some of the bras have squeaky underwires, and I'm not sure if this comes from the wire coating, the foam, or the interior of the wire channel. This one did not have a squeaking problem but others have mentioned this in their reviews and I have experienced this in some of the bras I tried in this style.
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1018 more words

Calypso Coral colorway

This bra is not owned any more

Updated on Oct 19, 2019 Flag this

What a surprise! I had always passed on the Ciao Bella based on the appearance of the photos online and the fact that I have been looking for unlined bras lately rather than lined ones. I decided to give this a shot since Nordstrom had the Vanilla Ice colorway on sale. I figured it wouldn't work out and I would return it, but I am actually quite pleased with this bra. Despite some issues, it is surprisingly comfortable, and I expect this will be a great bra for daily wear when the weather gets a little colder.

I ordered this in my normal size of ... 30D to start. The band fits true to size for the brand, about the same as Betsey Johnson and Natori. The band is made from micromesh-lined open mesh, with decently firm elastic that goes under the cradle, giving it a much more secure fit than I am used to from American department store brands. The unstretched band measures TTS for 30D, and while it isn't as snug as the UK 30D bras I am used to, feels secure yet comfortable.

Now, one major reason the styling of the bra never appealed to me is that I thought it was one piece molded foam, which I absolutely hate. Instead, it is constructed as a normal bra with cups made from a seamed flexible foam lining. The construction of the bra is the same as Cleo Mimi, but has a lace overlay over the entire front panel. Since it is really just a normal balconnette with a bandeau-like appearance, it ends up looking more like a normal balconnette on me.

I was originally worried that the cup seams would be really visible, since I hated the ones on Cleo Juna, and several users' fit photos showed a pointy seam, but these are actually quite subdued on me. This is thanks to the flexible foam cups, which really do mold nicely to your shape. As long as you are full enough to fill out the cups completely, the seams won't be visible. The lace texture is also pretty subtle under clothing, and is no more noticeable than my normal unlined lace bras (currently the Auden unlined lace balconnette).

My only fit criticism is that the shape of the cups is very immediately projected, and the fullest part of the cup is rather low on me and doesn't look as nicely rounded as I would like. I've also noticed this in fit photos of almost everyone else, so the fullest point of this bra is kind of unbalanced. However, the top of the cup is more closed, so it almost gives me a little bit of quadding. The shape is a little bit orange-in-a-glass on me, and I could do with a shallower bottom cup but more room at the top of the cup. However, since the foam is very flexible, this shape mismatch is pretty subtle, and I could easily get away with this fit, especially under clothing.

After trying the 30DD and comparing measurements, I have concluded that these cups are just too small for me, which explains the fit issues and shape mismatch. This is pretty odd since the only other B.tempt'd bra that fits me is a 30C, and so far none of the 30Ds I've tried have fit (I've tried 3 styles and 5 bras). I really have no idea how the overall sizing for this brand runs, but I do feel that the cups run small on this particular style.

However, there are two things I really don't love about the bra. First, the adjustable portion of the strap is very short (most of it is a decorative twinned strap), and I have the straps fully shortened. I am 5'1" with a normal torso proportion, and I don't think this would work for someone who actually has a shorter torso. However, I saw another user who is also 5'1" write that the straps were too short, so I wonder if the style has been updated, or if there are just some inconsistencies in strap length. The second is that the lace, while decently soft, snags easily. In handling the bra for this review, it snagged on my gold bracelet and on a rough patch of skin on my finger. Hopefully this doesn't become an issue with regular wear, as I am planning to add this bra into my everyday rotation for cooler weather.

I have noticed that after trying five of these bras in the same size that some have a nicer shape than others. This color is the best fitting of all of the ones that I've tried, and it fits like 30DD but slightly scaled down. It does not give me a weird cup shape like some of the others do, however 30DD is a better fit. Also, some of the bras have squeaky underwires, and I'm not sure if this comes from the wire coating, the foam, or the interior of the wire channel. This one is super squeaky, and the 30DD was squeaky as well!
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761 more words

Pastel Lilac Lurex colorway

This bra is not owned any more

Updated on Oct 05, 2019 Flag this

What a surprise! I had always passed on the Ciao Bella based on the appearance of the photos online and the fact that I have been looking for unlined bras lately rather than lined ones. I decided to give this a shot since Nordstrom had the Vanilla Ice colorway on sale. I figured it wouldn't work out and I would return it, but I am actually quite pleased with this bra. Despite some issues, it is surprisingly comfortable, and I expect this will be a great bra for daily wear when the weather gets a little colder.

I ordered this in my normal size of ... 30D to start. The band fits true to size for the brand, about the same as Betsey Johnson and Natori. The band is made from micromesh-lined open mesh, with decently firm elastic that goes under the cradle, giving it a much more secure fit than I am used to from American department store brands. The unstretched band measures TTS for 30D, and while it isn't as snug as the UK 30D bras I am used to, feels secure yet comfortable.

Now, one major reason the styling of the bra never appealed to me is that I thought it was one piece molded foam, which I absolutely hate. Instead, it is constructed as a normal bra with cups made from a seamed flexible foam lining. The construction of the bra is the same as Cleo Mimi, but has a lace overlay over the entire front panel. Since it is really just a normal balconnette with a bandeau-like appearance, it ends up looking more like a normal balconnette on me.

I was originally worried that the cup seams would be really visible, since I hated the ones on Cleo Juna, and several users' fit photos showed a pointy seam, but these are actually quite subdued on me. This is thanks to the flexible foam cups, which really do mold nicely to your shape. As long as you are full enough to fill out the cups completely, the seams won't be visible. The lace texture is also pretty subtle under clothing, and is no more noticeable than my normal unlined lace bras (currently the Auden unlined lace balconnette).

My only fit criticism is that the shape of the cups is very immediately projected, and the fullest part of the cup is rather low on me and doesn't look as nicely rounded as I would like. I've also noticed this in fit photos of almost everyone else, so the fullest point of this bra is kind of unbalanced. However, the top of the cup is more closed, so it almost gives me a little bit of quadding. The shape is a little bit orange-in-a-glass on me, and I could do with a shallower bottom cup but more room at the top of the cup. However, since the foam is very flexible, this shape mismatch is pretty subtle, and I could easily get away with this fit, especially under clothing.

After trying the 30DD and comparing measurements, I have concluded that these cups are just too small for me, which explains the fit issues and shape mismatch. This is pretty odd since the only other B.tempt'd bra that fits me is a 30C, and so far none of the 30Ds I've tried have fit (I've tried 3 styles and 5 bras). I really have no idea how the overall sizing for this brand runs, but I do feel that the cups run small on this particular style.

However, there are two things I really don't love about the bra. First, the adjustable portion of the strap is very short (most of it is a decorative twinned strap), and I have the straps fully shortened. I am 5'1" with a normal torso proportion, and I don't think this would work for someone who actually has a shorter torso. However, I saw another user who is also 5'1" write that the straps were too short, so I wonder if the style has been updated, or if there are just some inconsistencies in strap length. The second is that the lace, while decently soft, snags easily. In handling the bra for this review, it snagged on my gold bracelet and on a rough patch of skin on my finger. Hopefully this doesn't become an issue with regular wear, as I am planning to add this bra into my everyday rotation for cooler weather.

I have noticed that after trying five of these bras in the same size that some have a nicer shape than others. This color is a passable fit as the cup isn't as short and pointy (some colors are totally unwearable on me), but overall 30DD is the best fit.
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702 more words

Flint Stone Lurex colorway

This bra is not owned any more

Updated on Oct 05, 2019 Flag this